Written by Sophie Bebeau on Wed Jan 01 2025.
Aging often comes with new mobility challenges, and the risk of a serious fall increases for adults over 65. The CDC lists the bathroom as the most dangerous place in the home for seniors, and 81% of all injuries in the bathroom are due to falls.
Caregivers and family members can help the seniors in their lives remain independent with some simple bathroom additions. Below are our picks for the top ten products to add to improve bathroom safety for seniors.
Raised toilet seats allow adults to sit down and get up more easily from the toilet and reduce the chance of a fall. Get extra comfort and security with a padded, locking model of a raised toilet seat.
Try the Carex Raised Toilet Seat With Rubber Pads, 5.5" which requires no tools to install and locks securely to most standard and elongated toilets.
Tripping in the bathtub or shower can be extremely dangerous for seniors with limited mobility. Look for mats made of antimicrobial materials that protect against bacteria, mold, and mildew.
Try the Carex Rubber Bathtub Mat, which has suction cups on the bottom to ensure it stays in place.
Make getting in and out of the tub with limited mobility stress-free with an adjustable transfer bench for your bathroom. Look for models with a backrest for added security and get extra comfort with a padded seat.
Try the McKesson Aluminum Frame Transfer Bench for an option that supports up to 400lbs and offers secure transfer in and out of a shower or bathtub.
Install grab bars throughout the bathroom for easy accessibility. Many seniors find it convenient to have a grab bar near the toilet, on the wall outside the shower or tub, and inside the shower or tub. Make sure to follow mounting instructions carefully and consider adding anti-slip tape to the handle for extra grip.
Try the drive Chrome Knurled Grab Bar with an engraved diamond-shaped pattern for better grip, even with wet hands.
A toilet safety frame is a great idea for anyone with trouble sitting on and standing up from the toilet. Find a frame that can support at least 300lbs for extra stability.
Try the McKesson Toilet Safety Rail with padded armrests for extra comfort and adjustable height and width.
Switching to a handheld showerhead can provide safety, convenience, and a little extra tranquility during shower time, especially when using a shower chair to bathe. Look for simple models with easy-to-adjust spray options.
Try the Drive Deluxe Handheld Shower Spray with an on & off switch built directly into the handle and an extra-long 80" hose.
Mobility issues can make it difficult to apply lotions or topical medications, and moving around to try and get a hard-to-reach spot can cause a fall or injury. Get an extendable, handled lotion applicator to make applying lotions or medications easier!
Try the Lotion EZE Long Handle Applicator with a reusable pad. This is ideal for those with limited mobility.
It can be stressful and emotionally challenging when physical limits make cleaning up after using the bathroom more difficult. A personal wiping aid can help the user stay more independent when it becomes more difficult to wipe effectively.
Try the Long Reach Comfort Wipe Toileting Aid, which features a soft, flexible head and an easy-to-use release button to dispose of toilet paper or wipe in a quick and sanitary way.
Declining mobility can leave seniors feeling like they are losing their independence. The good news is that there are many products on the market to help make life easier. Many bathroom safety products are even FSA and HSA eligible, and some are covered by certain Medicare plans or private health insurance.
Choosing the right product can be overwhelming - Carewell's here to help. If you need help finding the perfect product for your needs, talk to one of our friendly Care Team members today. Call (800) 696-CARE. We’re here to support you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
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Read More >Sophie Bebeau is a writer, graphic designer, poet, and multidisciplinary artist living in Green Bay, Wisconsin. When she’s not writing or making things for the internet, she can be found cross-stitching, writing poetry, and snuggling on the couch with a cup of tea and her husband, son, and dog, Buttercup.